Summer is here and with hot weather sweeping across the nation, cold, delicious ice cream is likely to be the dessert of choice for many-and with many deals being offered for free and cheaper ice cream in honor of National Ice Cream Day on July 17, the sweet treat gets even sweeter. 

Several national and local places are offering up great deals for free desserts or discounted scoops in honor of the holiday today. Here's where you can find some of the best deals on the ice cream treat of your dreams: 

Baskin-Robbins: Every ice cream float purchase made on July 17th will provide a $0.75 donation to the USO in honor of its 75th anniversary 

Bruster's: Join Sweet Rewards to get sweet deals, including a welcome offer. Other perks will include a special birthday gift and anniversary coupons to give you a chance to celebrate all year round  

Carvel: On Sunday, July 17th, buy any size of soft serve cup or cone and get one free 

Cold Stone Creamery: Join the eClub and get two creations for the price of one 

Friendly's: Get $1.99 single, $2.99 double and $2.99 Sundae Funday cones during Sprinklefest 

Graeter's: Get cones for just $1.46 each 

Dippin' Dots: Use promo code ICECREAM to buy 2 bulk bags and get a 3rd free with free shipping 

Marble Slab Creamery: Join Slab Happy Rewards and get free ice cream just for signing up 

Monkey Joe's: Get free ice cream plus prizes and giveaways all day  

Petsmart: Your beloved dog can get in on the action too at Petsmart locations, where they will be giving away doggie ice-cream sundaes  

Sonic Drive-In: Get half- priced shakes after 8 p.m.  

Steak n Shake: Download the Steak n Shake Rewards App to get a free shake with your first in-app purchase 

Sub Zero: Get a free waffle bowl with any ice cream purchase  

Your Pie: Get free gelato, and if you snap a pic of your free treat and use #ypgelato you have a chance to win free gelato twice a week for the rest of the year  

Tags: National Ice Cream Day